Kim Jong Un Signals Willingness to Talk if U.S. Drops Denuclearization Demand
Seoul, South Korea – September 22, 2025 – north Korean leader Kim Jong Un has indicated a readiness to re-engage in dialog with the United States, but only if Washington relinquishes its longstanding demand for the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. The statement, reported by South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency, marks a potential shift in pyongyang’s position after years of stalled negotiations and escalating tensions.
This advancement arrives as international concerns grow over North Korea’s continued weapons development and increasingly assertive rhetoric. While past talks have repeatedly foundered on the issue of denuclearization, Kim’s willingness to consider discussions under altered conditions could open a new, albeit narrow, pathway toward de-escalation and regional stability. The move impacts not only the two Koreas and the U.S., but also regional powers like Japan and China, all of whom have a vested interest in preventing further instability.
According to Yonhap, Kim affirmed his commitment to restoring peace and trust with the North, despite a lack of reciprocal engagement from Pyongyang. He pledged to “persist” with these efforts, signaling a continued desire for diplomatic solutions, even in the face of current obstacles.
The offer represents a significant departure from previous North korean stances, which have consistently framed denuclearization as unacceptable.It remains unclear what concessions Kim might seek in return, or whether the U.S. would be willing to alter its core negotiating position. The Biden governance has yet to officially respond to the statement.
